4.2 Oak Ridge Reservation

ORR is a Government-owned, contractor-operated reservation located in the State of Tennessee. The regional location of ORR is shown in figure 4.2-1 and the principal facilities at ORR are shown in figure 4.2-2. The prime contractor manages the Y-12 Plant (Y-12), Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the K-25 Site (K-25), and most other properties on the reservation. The facilities began operation in 1943 as part of the World War II Manhattan Project. The primary missions at each facility have changed over the past 50 years, with the current missions described in section 3.2.2. Although Y-12 is the main focus area with respect to the proposed actions, baseline environmental information and impact assessment are presented for ORR due to the proximity and potential impacts of nearby facilities, both present and future.

4.2.1 Description of Alternatives

No Action. ORR would continue to perform the missions described in section 3.2.2.

Stockpile Management Alternatives. The secondary and case fabrication mission could be consolidated and downsized, and remain at Y-12. In this scenario, storage of the strategic reserve of uranium would remain at Y-12. The Y-12 secondary and case fabrication mission could also be transferred to either LANL or LLNL. In the event the secondary and case fabrication mission is transferred to the laboratories, the DP missions at Y-12 would be phased out and the facilities transitioned to EM for disposition. In addition, the strategic reserve of uranium in the form of canned subassemblies would be relocated to the weapons assembly/disassembly (A/D) Facility at either Pantex or NTS.

Stockpile Stewardship Alternatives. There are no stockpile stewardship alternatives that include ORR.

4.2.2 Affected Environment

The following sections describe the affected environment at ORR for land resources, air quality, water resources, geology and soils, biotic resources, cultural and paleontological resources, and socioeconomics. In addition, the infrastructure at ORR, the radiation and hazardous chemical environment, and the waste management conditions are described.

4.2.2.1 Land Resources

ORR is located on approximately 13,980 hectares (ha) (34,545 acres) within the corporate limits of the city of Oak Ridge, approximately 19 km (12 mi) west of Knoxville, TN. All the land within ORR is owned by the Federal Government and is administered, managed, and controlled by DOE. Generalized land uses at ORR and in the vicinity are shown in figure 4.2.2.1-1.

Land uses within ORR can be grouped into four major land use classifications: industrial, forest/undeveloped, public/quasi-public, and water. The industrial areas account for approximately 4,700 ha (11,700 acres) or approximately 33 percent of the total site area. An additional 490 ha (1,200 acres) are used for a security buffer zone around various facilities. About 320 ha (800 acres) of ORR's land is classified as public land and consists mainly of the 36-ha (90-acre) Clark Center Recreational Park, numerous small public cemeteries, and an onsite public road (OR DOE 1989a:5-10). The remaining area, about 8,700 ha (21,600 acres), consists of forest/undeveloped land, some of which is managed as pine plantations for production of pulpwood and saw timber. The DOE Water Treatment Facility, which provides water to many ORR facilities and the city of Oak Ridge, is located just north of Y-12. There are no prime farmlands on ORR.

In 1980, DOE designated approximately 5,500 ha (13,600 acres) of ORR undeveloped land as a National Environmental Research Park. The park is used by the national scientific community as an outdoor laboratory for environmental science research on the impact of human activities on the eastern deciduous forest ecosystem (DOE 1985a:3,27).

Land bordering ORR is predominately rural and used largely for residences, small farms, forest land, and pasture land. The city of Oak Ridge, along the northeast portion of the site, has a typical urban mix of residential, public, commercial, and industrial land uses. There are four residential areas along the northern boundary of ORR; each has several houses within approximately 30 m (98 ft) of the boundary.

Y-12 is largely developed and encompasses 328 ha (811 acres) of which 255 ha (630 acres) are enclosed by security fencing. Y-12 is the primary location used for supporting DP missions, including nuclear components production and surveillance and nuclear production mission assignments. These activities are housed in approximately 425 buildings containing 152,911 square meters (m 2) (5.4 million square feet [ft2] ) of floor space. Y-12 also has approximately 20 buildings, containing 8,495 m2 (300,000 ft2) of floor space, that house support activities and several organizations of the DOE Oak Ridge Field Office.

4.2.2.2 Site Infrastructure

To support the current missions at ORR, as described in section 3.2.2, an extensive infrastructure exists as shown in table 4.2.2.2-1. These resources support operations at Y-12, ORNL, and K-25.

Table 4.2.2.2-1.--Baseline Characteristics for Oak Ridge Reservation.

4.2.2.3 Air Quality

The following section describes existing air quality and reviews the meteorology and climatology in the vicinity of ORR. More detailed discussions of the air quality methodologies, input data, and atmospheric dispersion characteristics are presented in appendix section B.3.2.

Meteorology and Climatology. The Cumberland and Great Smoky Mountains have a moderating influence on the climate at ORR. Winters are generally mild and summers warm, with no noticeable extremes in precipitation, temperature, or winds.

The annual average temperature at ORR is 13.7 °Celsius (C) (56.6 °Fahrenheit [F]); the average daily minimum temperature in January is -3.8 °C (25.1 °F), and the average daily maximum temperature in July is 30.4 °C (86.7 °F). The average annual precipitation is approximately 136.6 centimeters (cm) (53.77 inches [in]). Prevailing wind directions at ORR tend to follow the orientation of the valley; up valley, from west to southwest; or down valley, from east to northeast. The average annual wind speed is approximately 2.0 meters per second (m/s) (4.5 miles per hour [mph]) (NOAA 1994c:3). Additional information related to meteorology and climatology at ORR is presented in appendix section B.3.2.

Ambient Air Quality. ORR is located in Anderson and Roane Counties in the eastern Tennessee and southwestern Virginia Interstate Air Quality Control Region (AQCR) 207. As of 1995, the areas within this AQCR were designated by EPA as attainment areas with respect to all National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for criteria pollutants (40 CFR 81.343). Applicable NAAQS and Tennessee State ambient air quality standards are presented in appendix table B.3.1-1.

One Prevention of Significant Deterioration Class I area can be found in the vicinity of ORR. This area, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is located approximately 48 km (30 mi) southeast of ORR. Since the promulgation of regulations, no Prevention of Significant Deterioration permits have been required for any emissions source at ORR.

The primary emission sources of criteria pollutants are the steam plants at Y-12, K-25, and ORNL. Other emission sources include fugitive particulates from coal piles, the Toxic Substances Control Act ( TSCA) incinerator, other processes, vehicles, and temporary emissions from various construction activities (OR DOE 1987a:33-49). Appendix table B.3.2-1 presents emission rates of pollutants from ORR.

Table 4.2.2.3-1 presents the baseline ambient air concentration for criteria pollutants and other pollutants of concern at ORR. As shown in the table, baseline concentrations are in compliance with applicable guidelines and regulations.

Table 4.2.2.3-1.--Comparison of Baseline Ambient Air Concentrations with Most Stringent Applicable Regulations and Guidelines at Oak Ridge Reservation, 1992

Pollutant	Averaging Time	Most Stringent Regulation or Guideline ( g/m3)	Baseline Concentration ( g/m3)
Criteria Pollutant
Carbon monoxide	8-hour 1-hour	10,0001 40,0001	5 11
Lead	Calendar quarter	1.5 1	0.05 2
Nitrogen dioxide	Annual	1001	3
Ozone	1-hour	2351	3
Particulate matter	Annual 24-hour	501 1501	1 2
Sulfur dioxide	Annual 24-hour 3-hour	801 3651 1,3001	2 32 80
Mandated by Tennessee
Gaseous fluoride (as hydrogen fluoride)	30-day 7-day 24-hour 12-hour 8-hour	1.2 4 1.6 4 2.9 4 3.7 4 2504	0.2 0.3 <0.6 <0.6 0.6
Total suspended particulates	24-hour	1504	2
Hazardous and Other Toxic Compounds
Chlorine	8-hour	1504	4.1
Hydrogen chloride	8-hour	7504	57
Mercury	8-hour	54	0.06 5
Nitric acid	8-hour	6	78
Sulfuric acid	8-hour	1004	20

4.2.2.4 Water Resources

This section describes the surface and groundwater resources at ORR.

Surface Water. The major surface water body in the immediate vicinity of ORR is the Clinch River, which borders the site to the south and west. There are four major subdrainage basins on ORR that flow into the Clinch River and are affected by site operations: Poplar Creek, East Fork Poplar Creek, Bear Creek, and White Oak Creek. Drainage from Y-12 enters both Bear Creek and East Fork Poplar Creek; K-25 drains predominantly into Poplar Creek and Mitchell Branch; and ORNL drains into the White Oak Creek drainage basin (OR DOE 1992c:1-16). Several smaller drainage basins, including Ish Creek, Grassy Creek, Bearden Creek, McCoy Branch, Kerr Hollow Branch, and Raccoon Creek, drain directly to the Clinch River. Each drainage basin takes the name of the major stream flowing through the area. Within each basin are a number of small tributaries. The natural surface water bodies in the vicinity of ORR are shown in figure 4.2.2.4-1.

The Clinch River and connected waterways supply all raw water for ORR. The Clinch River has an average flow of 132 cubic meters (m ³⁾ /s (4,647 cubic feet [ft ^3] /s) as measured at the downstream side of Melton Hill Dam at mile 23.1. The average flow of Bear Creek near Y-12 is 0.11 m 3 /s (3.9 ft 3 /s). The average flow at East Fork Poplar Creek is 1.3 m 3 /s (45 ft 3 /s) (OR USGS 1986a:161,168-169). Y-12 uses approximately 7,530 million liters per year (MLY) (1,989 million gallons per year [MGY]) of water, while ORR uses approximately twice as much (14,760 MLY [3,900 MGY]). The ORR water supply system, which includes the DOE treatment facility and the K-25 treatment facility, has a capacity of 44,347 MLY (11,716 MGY).

At Y-12, there are six treatment facilities with NPDES-permitted discharge points to East Fork Poplar Creek. Y-12 is also permitted to discharge wastewater to the City of Oak Ridge Wastewater Treatment Facility. At ORNL, three NPDES-permitted wastewater treatment facilities discharge into White Oak Creek basin. K-25 operates one sanitary sewage system which discharges to Poplar Creek (OR DOE 1994c:4-17-4-19).

Clinch River water levels in the vicinity of ORR are regulated by a system of dams operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority. Melton Hill Dam controls the flow of the Clinch River along the northeast and southeast sides of ORR. Watts Bar Dam, located on the Tennessee River downstream of the lower end of the Clinch River, controls the flow of the Clinch River along the southeast side of ORR (ORNL 1986a:1-17).

The Tennessee Valley Authority has conducted flood studies along Clinch River, Bear Creek, and East Fork Poplar Creek. Portions of Y-12 lie within the 100- and 500-year floodplains of East Fork Poplar Creek; however, proposed alternative facilities are located outside the 500-year floodplain (ORR 1995a:6).

Surface Water Quality. The streams and creeks of Tennessee are classified by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and defined in the State of Tennessee Water Quality Standards. Classifications are based on water quality, designated uses, and resident aquatic biota. The Clinch River is the only surface water body on ORR classified for domestic water supply. Most of the streams at ORR are classified for fish and aquatic life, livestock watering, and wildlife (OR DOE 1992c:1-16). White Oak Creek and Melton Branch are the only streams not classified for irrigation. Portions of Poplar Creek, East Fork Poplar Creek, and Melton Branch are not classified for recreation.

Both routine and NPDES-required surface water monitoring programs (over 225 sites) are performed at Y-12 to assess the impacts of the plant effluents upon natural receiving water and to estimate the impacts of these effluents on human health and the environment. At Y-12, Bear Creek, McCoy Branch, Rogers Quarry, and East Fork Poplar Creek receive effluent from treated sanitary wastewater, industrial discharges, cooling water blowdown, stormwater, surface water runoff, and groundwater. The chemical water quality of Bear Creek has been affected by the infiltration of contaminated groundwater. Contaminants included high concentrations of dissolved salts, several metals, chlorinated solvents, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (OR DOE 1994d:5-9). DOE is currently involved with remediation of East Fork Poplar Creek under CERCLA because the creek was contaminated by past releases from Y-12. Significant cleanup activities are required onsite and offsite. Contaminants present in East Fork Poplar Creek included mercury, organics, PCBs, and radionuclides (OR DOE 1994d:5-9).

There are 455 NPDES-permitted outfalls associated with the three major facilities at ORR; many of these are stormwater outfalls. Approximately 57,000 NPDES laboratory analyses were completed in 1993, with a compliance rate of over 99 percent. Most excursions were associated with precipitation runoff (OR DOE 1994c:2-13).

As shown in table 4.2.2.4-1, all parameters were below state water quality criteria where the Clinch River leaves ORR. Monitoring data from this sampling site are compared with monitoring data from the Melton Hill Dam sampling site, located upstream of all ORR discharges, and therefore are representative of background water quality. The concentrations downstream of ORR discharges were lower than concentrations upstream in all cases except gross beta and total suspended solids. Concentrations at Melton Hill Dam were also well below applicable water quality criteria.

Table 4.2.2.4-1.-- Summary of Surface Water Quality Monitoring of the Clinch River, 1993

Surface Water Rights and Permits. In Tennessee, the state's water rights laws are codified in the Water Quality Control Act. In effect, the water rights are similar to riparian rights in that the designated usages of a water body cannot be impaired. The only requirement to withdraw water from available supplies would be a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit to construct intake structures.

Groundwater. ORR is located in an area of sedimentary rocks of widely varying hydrological characteristics. However, because of the topographic relief and a decrease in bedrock fracture density with depth, groundwater flow is restricted primarily to shallow depths of the saturated zone in the aquitards, and groundwater discharges primarily to nearby surface waters within ORR (OR DOE 1994c:7-5). Depth to groundwater is generally 6 to 9 m (19.7 to 29.5 ft) but is as little as 1.5 m (4.9 ft) in the area of Bear Creek Valley near Highway 95.

Aquifers at ORR include a surficial soil and regolith unit and bedrock aquifers. The surficial aquifer consists of manmade fill, alluvium, and weathered bedrock. Bedrock aquifers occur in carbonates and low-yield sandstones, siltstones, and shales.

There are no Class I sole-source aquifers that lie beneath ORR. All aquifers are considered Class II aquifers (current potential sources of drinking water). Because of the abundance of surface water and its proximity to the points of use, very little groundwater is used at ORR. Only one water supply well exists on ORR; it provides a supplemental water supply to an aquatics laboratory during extended droughts.

Recharge occurs over most of the area but is most effective where overburdened soils are thin or permeable. In the area near Bear Creek Valley, recharge into the carbonate rocks occurs mainly along Chestnut Ridge (OR DOE 1992c:5-5). Shallow groundwater generally flows from the recharge areas to the center of Bear Creek Valley and discharges into Bear Creek and its tributaries.

Groundwater Quality. Groundwater samples are collected quarterly from a representative number of the more than 1,000 monitoring wells throughout ORR. Groundwater samples collected from the monitoring wells are analyzed for a standard suite of parameters and constituents, including trace metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), radioactive materials, and pH. Background groundwater quality at ORR is generally good in the near surface aquifer zones and poor in the bedrock aquifer at depths greater than 300 m (984 ft) due to high total dissolved solids.

Groundwater in Bear Creek Valley near Y-12 has been contaminated by hazardous chemicals and radionuclides (mostly uranium) from past weapons production process activities. The contaminated sources include past waste disposal sites, waste storage tanks, spill sites, and contaminated inactive facilities (OR DOE 1994c:7-11,7-16,7-33-7-36).

Groundwater Availability, Use, and Rights. Industrial and drinking water supplies in the area are primarily taken from surface water sources. However, single-family wells are common in adjacent rural areas not served by the public water supply system. Most of the residential supply wells in the immediate area of ORR are south of the Clinch River (OR DOE 1992c:1-15). Most wells used for potable water are located in the deeper principal carbonate aquifer (305 m [1,000 ft]), while the groundwater contamination at Y-12 is primarily found at a depth of approximately 84 m (276 ft).

Groundwater rights in the State of Tennessee are traditionally associated with the Reasonable Use Doctrine (VDL 1990a:725). Under this doctrine, landowners can withdraw groundwater to the extent that they must exercise their rights reasonably in relation to the similar rights of others.

4.2.2.5 Geology and Soils

Geology. ORR lies in the Valley and Ridge province of east-central Tennessee. The topography consists of alternating valleys and ridges that have a northeast-southwest trend, with most ORR facilities occupying the valleys. Y-12 is in the Bear Creek Valley. Bear Creek Valley and the adjacent Pine and Chestnut Ridges are underlain by rocks composed of siltstone, silty limestone, and shale with some sandstone. The present topography of the valleys is the result of stream erosion of the softer shales and limestones. The ridges are underlain by the more resistant sandstones and dolomites.

ORR is cut by many inactive faults formed during the late Paleozoic Era. The Oak Ridge area lies at the boundary between seismic Zones 1 and 2 (appendix figure A.1-1). Since the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811 to 1812, at least 26 other earthquakes with a modified Mercalli intensity of III to VI have been felt in the Oak Ridge area. Most of these seismic events have occurred in the Valley and Ridge province. The nearest seismic event occurred in 1930, 8 km (5 mi) from ORR. It had a modified Mercalli intensity of V at the site (OR EG&G 1991a: 3-4). The magnitude of the largest recorded earthquake in eastern Tennessee was 4.6 on the Richter scale. This earthquake occurred in 1973 in Maryville, TN, 34 km (21 mi) southeast of ORR, and had an estimated modified Mercalli intensity of V to VI in the Oak Ridge area ( DOE 1996h:4.55). There is no volcanic hazard at ORR. The area has not experienced volcanism within the last 230 million years. Therefore, future volcanism is not expected (DOE 1995i:4-200).

Soils. Bear Creek Valley lies on well to moderately well-drained soils underlain by shale, siltstone, and sandstone. Developed portions of the valley are designated as urban land. Soil erosion from past land uses has ranged from slight to severe. Erosion potential is very high in those areas with slopes greater than 25 percent that have been severely eroded in the past. Erosion potential is lowest in nearly flat-lying permeable soils that have a loamy texture (ORNL 1988b:69). Additionally, wind erosion is slight, shrink-swell potential is low to moderate, and the soils are acceptable for standard construction techniques. There are no prime farmlands on ORR (DOE 1995i:4-188).

4.2.2.6 Biotic Resources

The following section describes biotic resources at ORR including terrestrial resources, wetlands, aquatic resources, and threatened and endangered species. A list of the threatened and endangered species that may be found on or in the vicinity of ORR is presented in appendix C.

Terrestrial Resources. Plant communities at ORR are characteristic of the intermountain regions of central and southern Appalachia. Approximately 10 percent of ORR has been developed since it was withdrawn from public access; the remainder of the site has reverted to or been planted with natural vegetation (OR DOE 1989a:3-5). The vegetation of ORR has been categorized into seven plant communities (figure 4.2.2.6-1). Pine and pine-hardwood forest and oak-hickory forest are the most extensive plant communities on ORR, while northern hardwood forest and hemlock-white pine-hardwood forest are the least common forest community types. Nine-hundred eighty-three species, subspecies, and varieties of plants have been identified on ORR (OR NERP 1993b:2).

Animal species found on ORR include 26 species of amphibians, 33 species of reptiles, 169 species of birds, and 39 species of mammals (OR NERP nda:10-17). Animals commonly found on ORR include the American toad ( Bufo americanus ), eastern garter snake ( Thamnophis sirtalis ), Carolina chickadee ( Parus carolinensis ), northern cardinal ( Cardinalis cardinalis ), white-footed mouse ( Peromyscus leucopus ), and raccoon ( Procyon lotor ). Although the whitetail deer ( Odocoileus virginianus ) is the only species hunted onsite (OR DOE 1991c:4-6), other game animals are also present. Raptors, such as the northern harrier ( Circus cyaneus ) and great horned owl ( Bubo virginianus ), and carnivores, such as the gray fox ( Urocyon cinereoargenteus ) and mink ( Mustela vison ), are ecologically important groups on ORR. A variety of migratory birds has been found at ORR. Migrating birds present onsite, as well as their nests and eggs, are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act .

Terrestrial habitat within the Y-12 area is dominated by buildings, parking lots, and lawns; thus, little natural vegetation is present. A few small forested areas do exist within the plant boundary along the slope of Chestnut Ridge. Fauna within the Y-12 area are limited by the lack of large areas of natural habitat (OR DOE 1994d:5-13).

Wetlands. Wetlands on ORR include emergent, scrub/shrub, forested wetlands associated with embayments of the Melton Hill and Watts Bar Reservoirs, riparian areas bordering major streams and their tributaries, old farm ponds, and groundwater seeps. Well-developed communities of emergent wetland plants in the shallow embayments of the two reservoirs typically intergrade into forested wetland plant communities, which extend upstream through riparian areas associated with streams and their tributaries. Old farm ponds on ORR vary in size and support diverse plant communities and fauna. Although most riparian wetlands on ORR are forested, areas within utility rights-of-way, such as those in Bear Creek and Melton Valleys, support emergent wetland vegetation (OR NERP 1991a:18,26,41). Two small wetland areas are located near the west end of Y-12 (OR DOE 1994d:5-14). Y-12 is drained by Bear Creek and East Fork Poplar Creek; wetlands occur along portions of both streams.

Aquatic Resources. Aquatic habitat on or adjacent to ORR ranges from small, free-flowing streams in undisturbed watersheds to larger streams with altered flow patterns due to dam construction. These aquatic habitats include tailwaters, impoundments, reservoir embayments, and large and small perennial streams. Aquatic areas within ORR also include seasonal and intermittent streams.

Sixty-four fish species have been collected on or adjacent to ORR. The minnow family has the largest number of species and is numerically dominant in most streams (ORNL 1988c:O-43). Fish species representative of the Clinch River in the vicinity of ORR are shad and herring ( Clupeidae ), common carp ( Cyprinus carpio ), catfish ( Ictaluridae ), bluegill ( Lepomis macrochirus ), crappie ( Pomoxis spp .), and drum ( Aplodinotus grunniens ) (ORNL 1981b:138-139). The most important fish species taken commercially in the ORR area are common carp and catfish. Commercial fishing is permitted on the Clinch River downstream from Melton Hill Dam (TN WRA 1995a:1-5). Recreational species consist of crappie, largemouth bass ( Micropterus salmoides ), sauger ( Stizostedion canadense ), sunfish ( Lepomis spp .), and catfish. Sport fishing is not permitted within ORR.

Y-12 is drained by Bear Creek and East Fork Poplar Creek. While both streams contain adequate physical habitat to maintain and propagate aquatic life throughout their length, species abundance and diversity within both streams have been affected by past Y-12 operation (OR DOE 1994d:5-13).

Threatened and Endangered Species. Eighty-four Federal- and state-listed threatened, endangered, and other special status species may be found on and in the vicinity of ORR (appendix table C-1). Twenty-six of these species have been identified on the site, 17 of which are Federal- and/or state-listed as threatened or endangered. The bald eagle ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus ) is the only Federal-listed species observed on the site (i.e., foraging on Melton Hill and Watts Bar Lakes). The additional state-listed species observed include 14 plant, 1 hawk, and 1 salamander species. No critical habitat for threatened or endangered species, as defined in the Endangered Species Act (50 CFR 17.11; 50 CFR 17.12), exists on ORR.

Y-12 does not contain any special status species (OR DOE 1994d:5-14). However, Bear Creek, which drains the western portion of the plant area, contains the Tennessee dace ( Phoxinus tennesseensis ).

4.2.2.7 Cultural and Paleontological Resources

Prehistoric Resources. More than 20 cultural resources surveys have been conducted on ORR. About 90 percent of ORR has received at least reconnaissance-level studies; however, less than 5 percent of ORR has been intensively surveyed. Most cultural resources studies have occurred along the Clinch River and adjacent tributaries. Prehistoric sites recorded at ORR include villages, burial mounds, camps, quarries, chipping stations, limited activity locations, and shell scatters. To date, over 45 prehistoric sites have been recorded at ORR, 13 of which may be considered potentially eligible for the NRHP. Most of these sites however have not yet been evaluated.

One site (40RE86), which is located on the Clinch River near K-25, has been determined to be eligible for inclusion on the NRHP. No NRHP-eligible prehistoric sites have been identified at Y-12. One site (40AN6), a lithic scatter, was identified near Scarboro Road east of Y-12, outside the fences. A field review of Y-12 indicated that much of the area had been disturbed and that the potential for NRHP-eligible prehistoric sites was low. Additional prehistoric sites may be identified in the unsurveyed portions of ORR. On May 6, 1994, a Programmatic Agreement concerning the management of historical and cultural properties at ORR was executed among the Oak Ridge Operations Office, the Tennessee State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. This agreement was administered to satisfy DOE's responsibilities regarding sections 106 and 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and requires DOE to develop a cultural resources management plan for ORR and to conduct cultural resources surveys as required.

Historic Resources. Historic resources identified at ORR include both archaeological remains and standing structures. Documented log, wood frame, or fieldstone structures include cabins, barns, churches, gravehouses, springhouses, storage sheds, smokehouses, log cribs, privies, henhouses, and garages. Archaeological remains consist primarily of foundations, roads, and trash scatters. Sixty-nine pre-1942 cemeteries were located within the original ORR site (OR Robinson 1950a:130). Because the size of the reservation has been reduced, today there are 32 known cemeteries within ORR. More than 240 historic resources have been recorded at ORR, and 38 of those sites may be considered potentially NRHP eligible.

All structures at ORR have been surveyed for historic significance, and all pre-World War II structures have been evaluated for NRHP eligibility. Freel's Cabin and two church structures, George Jones Memorial Baptist Church and the New Bethel Baptist Church, are listed on the NRHP. These structures date from before the establishment of the Manhattan Project. NRHP sites associated with the Manhattan Project include the Graphite Reactor at ORNL, listed on the NRHP as a National Historic Landmark, and three traffic checkpoints, Bear Creek Road, Bethel Valley Road, and Oak Ridge Turnpike Checking stations. None of these sites is located at Y-12. Many other buildings and facilities at ORR are associated with the Manhattan Project and may be potentially eligible for the NRHP.

Historic building surveys were completed during fiscal year 1994 at K-25 and ORNL. A similar survey was completed at Y-12 in fiscal year 1995. The final document should be finished in fiscal year 1996. Based on this survey, approximately 100 buildings at Y-12 may be NRHP eligible. The secondary and case fabrication alternative involves modifications to 17 buildings at Y-12 (appendix section A-3.2.1). Through consultation with the Tennessee SHPO, Buildings 9215, 9401-3, 9706-2, 9996, 9998, and 9212 have been determined NRHP eligible as contributing properties to the proposed Y-12 Plant National Register Historic District. In addition, Building 9710-2 has been determined to be NRHP eligible. The remaining buildings involved do not possess architectural or historical significance to meet National Register Criteria and therefore are not considered to be contributing properties to the proposed historic district. Additional historic sites may be anticipated in the unsurveyed portions of ORR.

Native American Resources. The Overhill Cherokee occupied portions of the Tennessee, Hiwassee, Clinch, and Little Tennessee River Valleys by the 1700s. Overhill Cherokee villages consisted of a large townhouse, a summer pavilion, and a plaza. Residences had both summer and winter structures. Subsistence was based on hunting, gathering, and horticulture. Most of the Cherokee people were relocated to the Oklahoma territory in 1838; some Cherokee later returned to the area from Oklahoma. Resources that may be sensitive to Native American groups include remains of prehistoric and historic villages, ceremonial lodges, cemeteries, burials, and traditional plant gathering areas. No Native American resources have been identified at Y-12. The Eastern Band of the Cherokee has been consulted concerning activities at ORR.

Paleontological Resources. The majority of geological units with surface exposures at ORR contain paleontological materials. All paleontological materials consist of invertebrate remains, and these assemblages have relatively low research potential (NRC 1987c:122).

4.2.2.8 Socioeconomics

Socioeconomic characteristics addressed at ORR include employment and regional economy, population and housing, and public finance. Statistics for employment and regional economy are presented for the regional economic area that encompasses 15 counties in Tennessee around ORR. Statistics for population and housing, and public finance are presented for the ROI, a four-county area in which 91.3 percent of all ORR employees reside: Anderson County (33.1 percent), Knox County (36 percent), Loudon County (5.6 percent), and Roane County (16.6 percent) (appendix table D.1-1). Figure 4.2.2.8-1 presents a map of the counties and selected cities composing the ORR regional economic area and ROI. Supporting data is presented in appendix D.

Regional Economy Characteristics. Selected employment and regional economy statistics for the ORR regional economic area are summarized in figure 4.2.2.8-2. Between 1980 and 1990, the civilian labor force in the regional economic area increased from 355,353 to 412,803 persons, a 16-percent increase (an annual average increase of 1.6 percent). In 1994, unemployment in the regional economic area was 4.9 percent, about the same as for Tennessee (4.8 percent). The region's per capita income of $17,652 in 1993 was approximately 4.3 percent less than the statewide per capita income of $18,439.

As shown in figure 4.2.2.8-2, the composition of the regional economic area economy parallels that of the statewide economy of Tennessee. During 1993, the service sector constituted over 26 percent of the region's total employment, followed by retail trade (19 percent) and manufacturing (18 percent). For the entire state, the service sector comprised 26 percent of total employment, manufacturing comprised 19 percent, and retail trade, 17 percent.

Population and Housing. Between 1980 and 1992, the ROI population increased from 464,018 to 499,444. This was an increase of about 7.6 percent (an annual average increase of less than 1 percent). Within the ROI, Loudon County experienced the greatest population increase at 16.4 percent (an annual average increase of a little over 0.7 percent), while Roane County's population decreased by about 0.7 percent (much less than 1 percent annually).

Between 1980 and 1990, the total number of housing units in the ROI increased from 181,299 to 206,067. The 13.8-percent increase (1.4-percent annual average increase) in housing units between 1980 and 1990 was slightly less than the annual average increase for the entire state. The total number of housing units in the ROI for 1992 was estimated to be 213,500. The 1990 ROI homeowner and rental vacancy rates were 1.7 and 8.5 percent, respectively. These rates were comparable to the statewide rates. Population and housing trends are summarized in figure 4.2.2.8-3 p.2.

Public Finance. Financial characteristics of the local jurisdictions in the ORR ROI that are most likely to be affected by the proposed action are presented in this section. The data reflect total revenues and expenditures of each jurisdiction's general fund, special revenue funds, and, as applicable, debt service, capital project, and expendable trust funds. Funding for schools in the ROI is provided by the county or city in which they are located. Major revenue and expenditure fund categories for counties and cities are presented in appendix table D.2.3-1. Figure 4.2.2.8-2 summarizes 1994 local governments' revenues and expenditures. Fund balances, which are dollars carried over from previous years, are not included in figure 4.2.2.8-2. All jurisdictions assessed had positive fund balances.

4.2.2.9 Radiation and Hazardous Chemical Environment

The following section provides a description of the radiation and hazardous chemical environment at ORR. Also included are discussions of health effects studies, a brief accident history, and emergency preparedness considerations.

Radiation Environment. Major sources of background radiation exposure to individuals in the vicinity of ORR are shown in table 4.2.2.9-1. All annual doses to individuals from background radiation are expected to remain constant over time. Accordingly, the incremental total dose to the population would result only from changes in the size of the population. Background radiation doses are unrelated to ORR operations.

Radionuclides released into the environment from ORR operations provide another source of radiation exposure to individuals in the vicinity of ORR. The radionuclides and quantities released from operations in 1993 are listed in the Oak Ridge Reservation Environmental Report for 1993 (ES/ESH-47). The doses to the public resulting from these releases and direct radiation are presented in table 4.2.2.9-2. These doses fall within radiological limits (DOE Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment) and are small in comparison to background radiation. The releases listed in the 1993 report were used in developing the reference environment (No Action) radiological releases at ORR in 2005 (section 4.2.3.9).

Based on a dose-to-risk conversion factor of 500 cancer deaths per 1 million person-rem (5x10 -4 fatal cancer per person-rem) to the public (appendix E), the fatal cancer risk to the maximally exposed member of the public due to radiological releases from ORR operations in 1993 is estimated to be approximately 1.5x10- 6 . That is, the estimated probability of this person dying of cancer at some point in the future from radiation exposure associated with 1 year of ORR operations is less than 2 chances in 1 million. (Note that it takes several to many years from the time of exposure to radiation for a cancer to manifest itself.)

Based on the same conversion factor, 0.014 excess fatal cancers are projected in the population living within 80 km (50 mi) of ORR from normal operation in 1993. To place this number in perspective, it can be compared with the numbers of fatal cancers expected in this population from all causes. The 1990 mortality rate associated with cancer for the entire U.S. population was 0.2 percent per year (Almanac 1993a:839). Based on this national rate, the number of fatal cancers from all causes expected to occur during 1993 was 1,760 for the population living within 80 km (50 mi) of ORR. This number of expected fatal cancers is much higher than the estimated 0.014 fatal cancers that could result from ORR operations in 1993. Workers at ORR receive the same dose as the general public from background radiation, but also receive an additional dose from working in the facilities. Table 4.2.2.9-3 presents the average, maximum, and total occupational doses to ORR workers from operations in 1992. These doses fall within radiological limits (10 CFR 835). Based on a dose-to-risk conversion factor of 400 fatal cancers per 1 million person-rem (4x10 -4 fatal cancers per person-rem) among workers (appendix E), the number of excess fatal cancers to workers from operations in 1992 is estimated to be 0.027. A more detailed presentation of the radiation environment, including background exposures and radiological releases and doses, is presented in the Oak Ridge Reservation Annual Site Environmental Report for 1993 (ES/ESH-47). The concentrations of radioactivity in various environmental media (e.g., air, water, and soil) in the site region (onsite and offsite) are also presented in the same report.

Table 4.2.2.9-1.-- Sources of Radiation Exposure to Individuals in the Vicinity, Unrelated to Oak Ridge Reservation Operations

Table 4.2.2.9-2.-- Doses to the General Public from Normal Operation at Oak Ridge Reservation, 1993 (Committed Effective Dose Equivalent)

Chemical Environment. The background chemical environment important to human health consists of the atmosphere, which may contain hazardous chemicals that can be inhaled; drinking water, which may contain hazardous chemicals that can be ingested; and other environmental media with which people may come in contact (e.g., soil through direct contact or via the food pathway). The baseline data for assessing potential health impacts from the chemical environment are presented in previous sections of this PEIS, particularly sections 4.2.2.3 and 4.2.2.4.

Adverse health impacts to the public can be minimized through administrative and design controls to decrease hazardous chemical releases to the environment and achieve compliance with permit requirements (e.g., air emissions and NPDES permit requirements). The effectiveness of these controls is verified by using monitoring information and inspecting mitigation measures. Health impacts to the public may occur during normal operation via inhalation of air containing hazardous chemicals released to the atmosphere by ORR operations. Risks to public health from ingesting contaminated drinking water or direct exposure are also potential pathways.

Baseline air emission concentrations for hazardous air pollutants and their applicable standards are presented in section 4.2.2.3. These concentrations are estimates of the highest existing offsite concentrations and represent the highest concentrations to which members of the public could be exposed. These concentrations are compared with applicable guidelines and regulations. Information about estimating health impacts from hazardous chemicals is presented in appendix E.

Exposure pathways to ORR workers during normal operation may include inhaling the workplace atmosphere, drinking ORR potable water, and other possible contacts with hazardous materials associated with work assignments. The potential health impacts vary from facility to facility and from worker to worker, and there is not enough information available to allow a meaningful estimation and summation of these impacts. However, workers are protected from workplace-specific hazards through appropriate training, protective equipment, monitoring, and management controls. Workers are also protected by ORR's adherence to OSHA and EPA occupational standards that limit atmospheric and drinking water concentrations of potentially hazardous chemicals in the workplace. Appropriate monitoring, which reflects the frequency and amounts of chemicals used in the operation processes, ensures that these standards are not exceeded. Additionally, DOE requirements ensure that conditions in the workplace are as free as possible from recognized hazards that cause or are likely to cause illness or physical harm; therefore, workers' health conditions at ORR are expected to be substantially better than required by the standards.

Table 4.2.2.9-3.-- Doses to the Onsite Worker from Normal Operation at Oak Ridge Reservation, 1992

	Onsite Releases and Direct Radiation
Affected Environment	Standard20	Actual 21
Average worker (mrem)	None	4.0
Maximally exposed worker (mrem)	5,000	2,000
Total workers (person-rem)	None	68

Health Effects Studies. Two epidemiologic studies were conducted to determine whether or not ORR contributed to any excess cancers in the communities surrounding the facility. One study found no excess cancer mortality in the population living in counties surrounding ORR when compared to the control populations located in other nearby counties and elsewhere in the United States. The other study found a slight increase in several types of cancers in the counties near ORR, but none of the increases were statistically significant.

More epidemiologic studies have been conducted to assess the health effects of the population working at ORR than at any other site reviewed for this PEIS. Increased cancer mortalities have been reported and linked to specific job categories, age, and length of employment, as well as the levels of radiation exposure. For a more detailed description of the studies reviewed and the findings, refer to appendix section E.4.

Accident History. There have been no accidents with a measurable impact on the offsite population during nearly 50 years of Y-12 operation at ORR. The most noteworthy accident in Y-12 history was the 1958 criticality accident. The impact from this accident resulted in radiation sickness for a few ORR employees. In 1989, there was a one-time accidental release of xylene into ORR's sewer system with no adverse offsite impacts. Accidental releases of anhydrous hydrogen fluoride occurred in 1986, 1988, and 1992, with few onsite and negligible offsite impacts. The hydrogen fluoride system where these accidents occurred is being modified to reduce the probability of future releases and to minimize the potential consequences if a release does occur (ORR 1992a:6).

Emergency Preparedness. Each DOE site has established an emergency management program. This program has been developed and maintained to ensure adequate response for most accident conditions and to provide response efforts for accidents not specifically considered. The emergency management program incorporates activities associated with emergency planning, preparedness, and response.

DOE has overall responsibility for emergency planning and operations at ORR; however, DOE has delegated primary authority for event response to the operating contractor. Although the contractor's primary response is onsite, it does provide offsite assistance, if requested, under the terms of existing mutual aid agreements. If a hazardous materials event with offsite impacts occurs at a DOE ORR facility, elected officials and local governments are responsible for the state's response efforts. The Governor's Executive Order No. 4 established the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency as the agency responsible for coordinating state emergency services. When a hazardous materials event occurring at DOE facilities is beyond the capability of local government and assistance is requested, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency Director may direct state agencies to provide assistance to the local governments. To accomplish this task and ensure prompt initiation of emergency response actions, the director may activate the State Emergency Operations Center and Field Coordination Center. City or county officials may activate local emergency operations centers in accordance with existing emergency plans.

4.2.2.10 Waste Management

This section outlines the major environmental regulatory structure and ongoing waste management activities for ORR. A more detailed discussion of the ongoing waste management operations is provided in appendix section H.2.1.

DOE is working with Federal and state regulatory authorities to address compliance and cleanup obligations arising from its past operations at ORR and is engaged in several activities to bring its operations into full regulatory compliance. These activities are set forth in negotiated agreements that contain schedules for achieving compliance with applicable requirements and financial penalties for nonachievement of agreed upon milestones. These agreements have been reviewed to assure the proposed actions are allowable under the terms of these agreements.

EPA placed ORR on the National Priorities List (NPL) on November 21, 1989. DOE, EPA Region IV, and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation completed a Federal Facility Agreement effective January 1, 1992, coordinating ORR inactive site assessment and remedial action. Portions of the Federal Facility Agreement are applicable to operating waste management systems. Existing actions being conducted under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and applicable state laws minimize duplication, expedite response actions, and achieve a comprehensive remediation of the site.

ORR manages a small quantity of spent nuclear fuel and five broad waste categories: TRU, low-level, mixed, hazardous, and nonhazardous. Because there is no spent nuclear fuel or TRU waste associated with any of the proposed activities at ORR, there is no discussion in this PEIS of spent nuclear fuel or TRU waste generation and management at ORR.

Low-Level Waste. LLW generated at Y-12 and K-25 is primarily contaminated with uranium; whereas, at ORNL, LLW consists primarily of mixed fission products. During 1993, Y-12, ORNL, and K-25 generated approximately 1,030 m³ (272,000 gallon [gal]), 1,540 m³ (407,000 gal), and 6 m³ (1,540 gal) of liquid LLW, respectively (OR MMES 1995c:5-12). At Y-12, the Central Pollution Control Facility treats and discharges nonnitrate dilute wastewater, acidic and caustic waste, and plating rinse waters. This facility can also perform pretreatment of nitrate bearing waste streams. The West End Treatment Facility processes nitrate bearing wastewater consisting of nitric acid, nitrate bearing rinse waters, waste coolants, and bio-nitrification sludge. At ORNL, liquid LLW is collected in storage tanks and routed through underground transfer lines to central evaporators for concentration. The concentrate is sent to the Milton Valley storage tanks for storage and the condensate is sent to the Process Waste Treatment Plant for further treatment prior to further management actions.

During 1993, Y-12, ORNL, and K-25 generated approximately 2,400 m³ (3,130 cubic yards [yd3]), 1,720 m³ (2,250 yd3), and 1,540 m³ (2,030 yd3) of solid LLW, respectively (OR MMES 1995c:5-12). Solid LLW consists primarily of radioactively contaminated construction debris, wood, paper, asbestos, trapping media, personal protection equipment, and process equipment. In addition, Y-12, ORNL, and K-25 also generated 2,335 m³, 0.3 m³, and 42 m³ of contaminated scrap metal, respectively. Depleted and natural uranium machine chips, after oxidation to a stable uranium oxide, are transported to the depleted uranium oxide storage vaults. Uranium sawfines are blended with uranium oxide and placed in the oxide vaults as a short-term storage method. The only LLW disposal facility on ORR is located at ORNL; however, it only accepts LLW generated at ORNL. The declining disposal capacity has created a significant increase in storage requirements. Currently, LLW is shipped to commercial treatment facilities for volume reduction (incineration or supercompaction) or recycle (metal smelting). The resulting residuals are returned to K-25 for storage and shipment to a disposal site.

The management of LLW at ORR has been affected by three recent events: declines in ORR disposal capacity, changes in regulatory and operational conditions, and evolution of the radioactive waste disposal-class concept. The previous strategy classified LLW according to its isotopic content, concentration, and the performance of a disposal facility. In some instances, these classifications are used to describe the type of LLW or a disposal technology. For example, L-I refers to low concentration LLW or a landfill disposal facility, while L-II refers to low-to-moderate concentration LLW or a tumulus disposal facility. A revised classification system has been proposed. Exempt LLW would have contaminant levels sufficiently low to be disposed of in a sanitary or industrial landfill with state concurrence. Disposable LLW would be suitable for disposal at ORR as determined by facility performance assessments. Offsite LLW would be waste which would not meet the criteria of exempt or disposable. The long-range strategy is to rely on the combination of onsite and offsite facilities. Plans for a replacement onsite disposal facility will continue to be pursued with the most likely candidate site for a tumulus disposal facility being Bear Creek Valley. That portion of the LLW that cannot be disposed of onsite consistent with DOE Order 5820.2A, Radioactive Waste Management, will be stored until disposal offsite becomes available.

Mixed Low-Level Waste . RCRA mixed, radioactive land disposal-restricted waste is in storage at Y-12, ORNL, and K-25. Because prolonged storage of these wastes exceeded the 1-year limit imposed by RCRA, ORR entered into a Federal Facility Compliance Agreement for RCRA land disposal restriction wastes with EPA on June 12, 1992. The Federal Facility Compliance Agreement recognizes that DOE will continue to generate and store such mixed wastes subject to land disposal restrictions. A Tennessee Department of Environment and Commissioner's Order was issued on September 26, 1995, that requires DOE to comply with the site treatment plan that was developed pursuant to the Federal Facility Compliance Act of 1992. The plan contains milestones and target dates for DOE to characterize and treat its inventory of mixed wastes.

In 1993, Y-12, ORNL, and K-25 generated 334,016 kilograms (kg) (736,372 pounds [lb]), 176,925 kg (390,049 lb), and 928,948 kg (2,047,959 lb) of mixed LLW, respectively (OR MMES 1995c:7-7). Liquid mixed wastes at Y-12 consist primarily of nonnitrate bearing wastewaters, contaminated groundwaters, nitrate-bearing wastes, cyanide wastes, contaminated waste oils, acidic wastes, caustic wastes, and contaminated solvents. Solid wastes include both RCRA- and TSCA-mixed wastes. The Central Pollution Control Facility and Plating Rinsewater Treatment Facility treat the nonnitrate bearing wastewaters; whereas, the West End Treatment Facility treats nitrate bearing wastes. Other treatment facilities include the Groundwater Treatment Facility, Waste Coolant Processing Facility, Cyanide Treatment Unit, Uranium Treatment Unit, and Biodenitrification Unit.

Mixed waste at K-25 includes liquids, sludges, and soil contaminated with hazardous and PCB constituents (including waste, oils, spent solvents, paints, and cyanide- or sulfide-bearing reactive wastes), and corrosive and toxic wastes from laboratory processes. Treatment facilities at K-25 include the Central Neutralization Facility and the TSCA Incinerator. The primary waste streams treated at the Central Neutralization Facility include the scrubber effluent from the TSCA Incinerator and process wastewaters from the K-1501 Steam Plant. The K-25 TSCA incinerator has a design capacity to incinerate 907 kg/hour (hr) (2,000 lb/hr) of mixed liquid waste and up to 454 kg/hr (1,000 lb/hr) of solids and sludge (91 kg/hr [200 lb/hr] maximum sludge content). The TSCA incinerator is capable of incinerating both TSCA- and RCRA-mixed waste. DOE guidance currently does not allow incineration of solids or sludges. Because of permit limits (i.e., TSCA, RCRA, and the State of Tennessee), the incinerator is not running at full capacity. In 1993, approximately 2,309 m 3 (610,000 gal) of mixed liquid waste was incinerated (OR MMES 1995c:7-9).

ORNL has no facilities specifically designed for the treatment of mixed wastes. Generators currently neutralize many corrosives before discharge to process drains. Organic mixed wastes are scheduled to be treated at the TSCA Incinerator.

Uranium-contaminated PCB wastes (mixed wastes) are being stored in excess of the 1-year limit imposed by TSCA because of the lack of treatment and disposal capacities. DOE and EPA have signed a Federal Facility Compliance Agreement, effective February 20, 1992, to bring the K-25 site associated with the Uranium Enrichment Program into compliance with TSCA regulations for use, storage, and disposal of PCBs. It also addressed the approximately 10,000 pieces of nonradioactive PCB-containing dielectric equipment associated with the shutdown of diffusion plant operations. An additional Federal Facility Compliance Agreement related to TSCA compliance is currently being discussed by DOE and EPA for ORR.

Hazardous Waste. RCRA-regulated wastes are generated by ORR in laboratory research, electroplating operations, painting operations, descaling, demineralizer regeneration, and photographic processes. Certain other wastes (e.g., spent photographic processing solutions) are processed onsite into a nonhazardous state. Those wastes that are safe to transport and are certified as having no radioactivity added are shipped offsite to RCRA-permitted commercial treatment or disposal facilities. Small amounts of reactive chemical explosives that would be dangerous to transport offsite, such as aged picric acid, are processed onsite in the Chemical Detonation Facility at ORNL.

Y-12 generated approximately 9,920 m³ (13,000 yd3) of hazardous waste in 1993 (OR MMES 1995c:6-4). Of this amount approximately 8,840 m³ (11,600 yd3) was liquid hazardous waste that was managed as mixed LLW and treated at the Plating Rinsewater Treatment Facility and the Steam Plant Wastewater Treatment Facility. The solid waste was treated offsite. Liquid and solid hazardous waste streams include steam plant wastewaters for treatment, mineral oil contaminated with PCBs, and sludges. All hazardous waste generated at K-25, including all wastes subject to RCRA and TSCA regulations, is managed as mixed LLW.

At ORNL approximately 23,800 m³ (31,200 yd3) of liquid hazardous waste was generated in 1993. Bulk nonnitrate acids previously neutralized at the Nonradiological Wastewater Treatment Plant are now sent to the Central Neutralization Facility. No treatment is performed for the approximately 354 m³ (464 yd3) of solid hazardous waste at ORNL (OR MMES 1995c:6-5). Some waste is sent to K-25 for storage or incineration, while the remainder (non-RCRA) is sent to a landfill at Y-12. Hazardous waste at K-25 is managed as mixed waste. Hazardous waste is collected and stored until it can be certified under the "no rad added" policy, at which time it is shipped offsite.

Nonhazardous Waste. Nonhazardous wastes are generated from ORR maintenance and utilities. For example, the steam plant produces a nonhazardous sludge. Scrap metals are discarded from maintenance and renovation activities and are recycled, when appropriate. Construction and demolition projects also produce nonhazardous industrial wastes. All nonradioactive medical wastes are autoclaved to render them noninfectious and are sent to the Y-12 sanitary landfill. Remedial action projects also produce wastes requiring proper management. The State of Tennessee-permitted landfill (Construction Demolition Landfill VI) receives nonhazardous industrial materials such as fly ash and construction debris. Asbestos and general refuse are managed in the Industrial and Sanitary Landfill V located at Y-12.

Approximately 52,800 m³ (69,100 yd3) of solid industrial and sanitary wastes were generated on ORR in 1993 (OR MMES 1995c:8-4). Y-12 is the single largest generator of this waste category with 43,900 m³ (57,600 yd3). ORNL and K-25 generated approximately 11 and 6 percent, respectively, of the total nonhazardous waste.

1 Federal standard.

2 Value is maximum for 24-hour period.

3 No monitoring data available, baseline concentration assumed less than applicable standard.

4 State standard.

5 Annual average. f No standard. 40 CFR 50; OR DOE 1993a; TN DEC 1994a; TN DHE 1991a.

6 For comparison only.

7 National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 141).

8 Proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, Radionuclides (56 FR 33050).

9 DOE Derived Concentration Guides for water (DOE Order 5400.5). Values are based on a committed effective dose equivalent of 100 millirems (mrem) per year; however, because the drinking water maximum contaminant level is based on 4 mrem per year, the number listed is 4 percent of the Derived Concentration Guides.

10 Minimum of uranium isotopes.

11 A tilde (~) indicates that estimated values and/or detection limits were used in the calculation.

12 National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 143).
NA - not applicable; NST - no sample taken; parentheses () indicate standard error of the mean.
OR DOE 1994f.

13 OR DOE 1994c.

14 NCRP 1987a. Value for radon is an average for the United States.

15 The standards for individuals are given in DOE Order 5400.5. As discussed in that order, the 10 mrem per year limit from airborne emissions is required by the CAA, the 4 mrem per year limit is required by the SDWA , and the total dose of 100 mrem per year is the limit from all pathways combined. The 100 person-rem value for the population is given in proposed 10 CFR 834 (58 FR 16268).

16 Includes a dose of 0.20 mrem from drinking water.

17 Includes an annual direct radiation dose of 1 mrem to an individual at Poplar Creek or the Clinch River shoreline.

18 In 1993, this population was approximately 880,000.

19 Obtained by dividing the population dose by the number of people living within 80 km (50 mi) of the site.
OR DOE 1994c..

20 10 CFR 835. DOE's goal is to maintain radiological exposure as low as reasonably achievable.

21 DOE 1993n:7. The number of badged workers in 1992 was approximately 17,000.